NCTE to Launch New Teacher Training Courses in Yoga, Arts, and Sanskrit Under NEP 2020 Push

Integrated Teacher Education Programme to Broaden Scope of Teacher Training

KURUKSHETRA — In a significant move to advance the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the National Council of Teacher Education (NCTE) will soon introduce new Integrated Teacher Education Programmes (ITEP) focusing on Yoga, performing and visual arts, and Sanskrit across the country.

Announcing the initiative at the National Conclave 2025 on “Transformation in Teacher Education Towards Viksit Bharat 2047” at Kurukshetra University, NCTE chairperson Prof Pankaj Arora highlighted the organisation’s mission to produce highly competent teachers for the holistic development of students.

New Courses Aim to Strengthen Indian Languages and Arts

The upcoming courses will train Yoga instructors, Physical Training teachers, and educators in visual and performing arts, along with Sanskrit language specialists.

Arora further revealed that the NCTE will also launch a one-year BEd programme for students who complete a four-year BA, as well as a one-year MEd programme. Plans are underway to offer part-time MA courses for teachers in CBSE and SCERT schools to enhance continuous professional development.

These new initiatives are intended to strengthen Indian languages and cultural education, aligning closely with NEP 2020’s vision for inclusive, multidisciplinary, and high-quality education.

National Leaders Stress the Role of Teachers in Nation-Building

Speaking at the event, Haryana Governor and Kurukshetra University Chancellor Bandaru Dattatreya emphasised that teachers are not merely transmitters of knowledge but builders of character who shape the nation’s future. He urged the youth of Haryana to focus on becoming job creators rather than job seekers, echoing NEP’s forward-looking objectives.

Governor Dattatreya commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in formulating the NEP 2020, describing it as a transformative policy that positions Indian education to be globally competitive.

Focus on Quality Education and Innovation

Prof Pankaj Arora stressed that achieving desired learning outcomes requires innovation, collaboration, and dedication. He called for the prompt nationwide implementation of NEP 2020, noting the urgent need for producing high-quality teachers to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving educational landscape.

Prof Kailash Chander Sharma, Chairperson of the Haryana State Higher Education Council, outlined NEP 2020’s goals to cultivate self-reliant, creative, and rational youth, emphasising the strategic importance of teacher preparation under the ITEP four-year programme.

Kurukshetra University Vice Chancellor Prof Som Nath Sachdeva showcased the university’s achievements, including the full implementation of NEP guidelines in undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and the institution’s A++ grade accreditation by NAAC.

The two-day conclave sees participation from education representatives, directors, and officials across nine states, with brainstorming sessions planned to advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

NCTE’s latest initiatives represent a critical step toward embedding the spirit of NEP 2020 in India’s teacher education system and preparing educators who can inspire innovation and foster future generations of leaders.